VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney treated supporters at a fundraiser in Virginia to a sneak peek of his inclinations regarding his vice presidential shortlist should he become the Republican nominee in 2012, according to a new report.

At the Virginia Beach home of State Sen. Jeff McWaters Monday, Romney praised three up-and-coming stars of the GOP, saying his shortlist included Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, the Bearing Drift blog reported Tuesday

While all three are regularly on 2012 VP shortlists compiled by media pundits, this is the first time a candidate has openly speculated about a running-mate this cycle.

In a nod to Virginia supporters at the $1,200 per plate fundraiser, Romney specifically praised McDonnell, calling him an “incredible governor” and said he would be on “any candidate’s shortlist” according to the conservative Virginia blog.